“Like most people when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer it affected me on a physical and emotional level. Obviously I was very concerned and emotionally depressed since I was only 58 years old. I am a medical doctor, so as you can imagine, there were several concerns about the different treatment options available; the 2 biggest ones being: first and foremost the eradication of the cancer and the second was erectile dysfunction. So I thoroughly researched all of my options.

According to Miami urologist Dr. George Suarez, when a man reaches the age of 40, his prostate – which is the walnut-sized organ located below the bladder and in front of the rectum – starts to enlarge, resulting in a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

As a result of BPH, the tube transporting urine from the bladder (urethra), is compressed. The results are typically painful and bothersome, including frequent urination during the day and at night, incomplete emptying of the bladder, weak urine flow and sometimes urine leakage. These disorders can definitely have a negative affect on an older person’s quality of life.

What do the studies indicate?

Studies indicate that about 45 % of middle-aged persons may be affected by these medical conditions at some point in their life. And by age 60, approximately 80 percent will have some lower urinary-tract symptoms.

Early screening and detection by your best Miami urologist is justified, including the dreaded digital rectal examination, which is performed to determine the size and weight of the prostate. Through this examination, your Miami urologist will be able to ascertain whether there are lumps and other abnormalities that will prompt further tests to determine health problems, including prostate cancer.

The patient’s proactive role is vitally important to prevent early complications of prostate problems, so early screening by your Miami urologist is necessary. Medical management is the first-line therapy, and surgical intervention is the ancillary option.

Miami urologist Dr. George Suarez offers these recommendations for the care of your prostate:

at five or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day;

Opt for whole-grain instead of white when choosing bread, pasta and cereals;